Calling all people to the parades

Published: Thursday, February 7, 2013 at 4:58 p.m.

Last Modified: Thursday, February 7, 2013 at 4:58 p.m.

Mardi Gras is one of the many things that make south Louisiana the unique, beautiful, fun place we all know it to be.

While the Carnival tradition has its roots in religion, the secular parades have taken on a significance all their own. And nobody does them better than we do.

The Houma-Thibodaux area has a host of parades that will thrill young and old, giving you something to do every day between now and Mardi Gras if you choose to take advantage of the many offerings.

There are the parades in Houma and Thibodaux, of course. Those events draw thousands to the two cities for the festivities that stand out, making this time of year so special.

There are also parades in smaller communities up and down our local bayous.

From Montegut to Golden Meadow to Larose to Lockport to Choupic to Labadieville, there are more than enough parades in the coming days to give everyone a great chance to enjoy them.

And enjoy them we do.

You might be one of the people who arrives early, stakes out a place along the route — maybe the same place year after year — and waits for the parade to get the best throws for you and your children.

Or you might be someone who is lucky enough to live along a parade route and host your own Mardi Gras parties for the parades.

If so, you already know which parades you’re planning to watch from the comfort and safety of your own front yard or front porch.

Whether it’s the fun-filled floats, the many great throws, the incredible bands or just the spending of time with your family or friends, this is the culmination of Mardi Gras and the time we wait for for the rest of the year.

Unfortunately, there are times that can ruin the fun for everyone.

Keep a close eye on children around the parade routes. Make sure they stay back from the edge of the sidewalk and don’t run the risk of falling into the street.

Give them a stern talk about how important it is to stay on the public side of the barricades and that they shouldn’t under any circumstance wander into the street — even if a really nice throw bounces out there.

If you are hosting a party or just attending one, make sure you do what you can to prevent those around you from getting behind the wheel of a car if they have been drinking.

Arrange for your guests to get home safely or just have them spend the night to avoid getting on the roads and creating a public menace.

Have fun, take in at least one parade in the coming days and please stay safe.

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